Evolution 180AH Lithium Golf Carts

[phairmason]

I test drove an Evolution Electric Plus 4 Passenger cart today at Villages Discount Golf Carts on 441. I have a 2013 gas Yamaha 4-seater and am looking at new lithium battery carts.

It had the LED display, speakers, and back up camera and fancy wheels/tires. But other than that, it's a barebones cart--no locking glove box, for example. I drove over a pretty deep pothole without a bounce (compared to my 2013 Y). I definitely liked the price.

Evolution owners:

Do you like it?
Does the "jump" start throw you off or do you get used to it?
Nothing on the dash has a closure. Do you have problems with items blowing away--maybe there's a hack to make a cavity a glove box?
What is the mileage on the 180AH battery charge? The sales rep said 55-65 miles.
What advice do you have about the Evolution cart or about the dealers in the area?


--Ruthie

[splashes]

Buy gas

[unialimon]

Buy gas

Oh was that the question? I guess I misunderstood.

[phairmason]

Buy gas

I see where you get your nickname.

[UpNorth]

Buy gas

Gas is history. Electric is the future.

[Altavia]

Love my lithium EZGO, 70 mi range, quiet, no exhaust smell, strong acceleration.

[DARFAP]

We bought a "loaded" 2-seater last fall. We really love it. It does get up and go, but after a few times, you figure it out. I can't quote a range. I also have a Yamaha gas cart for the longer trips; however, I'm confident the EVolution could get it done as well.

[2GSBK]

We have two carts, brand new Yamaha four seater gas and a six year old EZ-GO electric.
No comparison, electric is the way to go.
It’s fast, it’s quiet, no stink, no maintenance to speak of, doesn’t get a hot seat in the summer, no lag going up hills, charges fast, charge lasts a long time, automatic parking brake, no trips to the gas station, no spills, no brainer.

[mrf6969]

We bought a "loaded" 2-seater last fall. We really love it. It does get up and go, but after a few times, you figure it out. I can't quote a range. I also have a Yamaha gas cart for the longer trips; however, I'm confident the EVolution could get it done as well.
But it sounds like you don't trust it. I get it, it is hard to give up a trusty Yamaha.

[coleprice]

We have a STAR EV golf cart whose range exceeds 60 to 80 miles. It has 8 lead-acid batteries, which are almost 3 years old. So, I'd expect the range that the salesman quoted you is probably accurate.

[charliesienhour]

My buddy bought one and loves it so I bought one also. Great cart. Much nicer than my club car and customer service at the dealer is great. Not like cart world! Have the shelf installed and you don’t have to worry about storage.

[Redwood8300]

Take a look at an Atomic. They are in Wildwood. I get around 100 miles/charge on mine.

[Travelhunter123]

Oh was that the question? I guess I misunderstood.

Before you buy, consider an Atomic golf cart. They are looking across the street from Sparr
They drive like a car and have all The features of car does including air conditioning heat electric windows back up camera windshield wipers high and low beams and so much more. It’s very quiet and reliable. It can go almost 100 miles

[jimbo2012]

Just add solar and get the best of both

[Astron]

We have one on order; demand exceeds supply right now. They can adjust the ‘jump’ at the start to make it less noticeable without effecting the top end speed. The 180 Amp Hour battery should last you for a drive anywhere in the Villages and back. We currently have a 120 Amp Hour battery on our EZGO and driven it at top speed for over three hours and still showed a quarter charge on the meter. Gas is yesterday’s familiar habit, lithium is the future.

[Cindy619]

We have a basic, old electric golf cart. Is it possible to buy the new lithium batteries for an old cart?

[Lisanp@aol.com]

Just add solar and get the best of both

I just had a total duh moment...why would you need gas a gas cart if you just had a roof solar panel in the FL sun on an electric cart? Is there someplace that installs solar panels on electric carts? Why isn't this standard from the manufacturers in 2021? Almost all new RVs have a roof solar panel to charge the house battery to run the fridge. Why are golf carts so behind the times? Who wants to go on shark tank with me?

[LeftyMike]

Check these Dakota Lithium batteries as replacements for lead acid. Good pricing.

Lithium Golf Cart Batteries - 36 Volt & 48V - Dakota Lithium (https://dakotalithium.com/36-volt-48-v-lithium-replacement-golf-cart-batteries/)

[UpNorth]

I just had a total duh moment...why would you need gas a gas cart if you just had a roof solar panel in the FL sun on an electric cart? Is there someplace that installs solar panels on electric carts? Why isn't this standard from the manufacturers in 2021? Almost all new RVs have a roof solar panel to charge the house battery to run the fridge. Why are golf carts so behind the times? Who wants to go on shark tank with me?

There was somebody selling this in The Villages a few years ago. Seemed to be too expensive for what you were getting. You can go on Amazon and buy a solar panel for around $100 today. There are basic and folding versions available. They all output 12v, so you would need to integrate the panel with your specific battery system.

[spofford]

Put the larger RoyPow lithium Batteries in 2019 electric club car in January 2021. I don’t give it a second thought to dive anywhere in TV. Batteries installed at dealership in Leesburg, they did a very clean job of installing batteries and charger. Only need a extension cord to recharge.

[Bellomo]

The quality of this cart is terrible. I own one and sorry I do. The roof is of such thin plastic it cracked under the weight of the curtain in the back. They had to replace the roof. It also rides like a tank. They will not set the speed above 20mph. Impossible to pass a cart doing 15mph on cart path. There is no attention to detail on this cart. I test drove an Evolution Electric Plus 4 Passenger cart today at Villages Discount Golf Carts on 441. I have a 2013 gas Yamaha 4-seater and am looking at new lithium battery carts.

It had the LED display, speakers, and back up camera and fancy wheels/tires. But other than that, it's a barebones cart--no locking glove box, for example. I drove over a pretty deep pothole without a bounce (compared to my 2013 Y). I definitely liked the price.

Evolution owners:

Do you like it?
Does the "jump" start throw you off or do you get used to it?
Nothing on the dash has a closure. Do you have problems with items blowing away--maybe there's a hack to make a cavity a glove box?
What is the mileage on the 180AH battery charge? The sales rep said 55-65 miles.
What advice do you have about the Evolution cart or about the dealers in the area?


--Ruthie

[DAVES]

We have a basic, old electric golf cart. Is it possible to buy the new lithium batteries for an old cart?

Probably.
People tend to post OPINION, not knowledge.
You apparently have lead acid batteries. In terms of same capacity, amp hours, they will be heavier. As they discharge the voltage goes down, reason why it is not as fast at low charge.
Lithium Ion batteries will be lighter for the same capacity. The voltage curve is flatter but it falls off a cliff at the end. Accurate remaining charge is likely less accurate. Cost, lithium ion batteries have gone down in price they are not as inexpensive as lead acid
and you will likely need to purchase a new charger for lithium ion batteries.
Neither battery type lasts forever. A guess 5-7 years. Typical warranty is based on list price. No one pays list price so the warranty is in reality less than it seems.

[ddags]

We just ordered Evolution 4 seater Plus from STM Golf Carts in Ocala.I did not like how Village Discount Golf Carts does business. When it comes to the Evolution you take what they have, they don't let you customize your cart. They are more of a Yamaha dealer and have only been selling Evolution for about 6 months. Stm has been selling Evolution for 5 years. Evolution comes from the factory with speed up to 25mph but Village Discount turns it down to 20mph.The Evolution also comes with a 2 year warranty but Village Discount tells you 1 but that they warranty the cart for 5 years. What they don't tell you is that you are paying over a $1000 for their extended warranty. Talk to Sam at STM first, it's a family business. Lithium is the future. It's 350lbs lighter than regular batteries and with the 180mah I like the idea of being able to go from one end of The Villages and back as it's getting so big. Also no maintenance and have a 5 year warranty on the battery. STM also can change out regular batteries for Lithium on some carts. The Lithium batteries come with a plug that can go in any outlet, no more heavy charger. The charger is built in.

[Tunesmith]

Love my lithium EZGO, 70 mi range, quiet, no exhaust smell, strong acceleration.
Robbie, I'll be looking at an EZGO Freedom RXV Elite 4.0 when we come down to TV in a couple weeks (Lifestyle Preview visit). Could you share some info on your cart? What features did you get, where did you buy, what model year, breakdown of the price? Thanks!

[Villages Kahuna]

Gas vs. Lithium…

If one can average 15 mph going under tunnels, stops, street crossings, etc., that’s pretty much top speed for a golf cart in The Villages. Driving a Lithium cart with an 80 mile range would mean you’d spend almost 5-1/2 hours in a day driving your cart about as fast as you can go on Villages cart paths.

Are you EVER going to have your fanny parked in the seat of a golf cart going as fast as you can make it go in TV for 5+ hours in a day? If not, the choice of the quiet, odor-free Lithium cart is obvious. Plus you never have the messy job of filling the batteries or going to a gas station every month or so.

[stebooo]

Totally disagree with golf carts. Remember they are a golf cart.

[stebooo]

Sounds like decision made. Good luck check in when you need replacement.

[Altavia]

Robbie, I'll be looking at an EZGO Freedom RXV Elite 4.0 when we come down to TV in a couple weeks (Lifestyle Preview visit). Could you share some info on your cart? What features did you get, where did you buy, what model year, breakdown of the price? Thanks!

I'm sure things have changed since my purchase from Villages Golf Cars a year and a half ago so check in with them. You can customize most everything, comfortable seats should be near the top of the list.

I hear order lead time for Lithium is 6+ months. (This is true for almost everything now days...)

I also heard some Lifestyle homes have referbed carts retrofitted with Lithium but have not confirmed that rumor.

Enjoy your visit!

[Footer]

You can read my review of Evolution. The 130 AH battery barely gets 45 miles. The 180 AH might get 55-65 miles but there is something basic wrong if that's all it gets.

I'm still getting 65 miles with the 105 AH Roywpow battery after 6 months of use. Link to that review is below. That is a great solution for an older cart with lead-acid batteries.

I highly recommend STM golf carts in Ocala if you want to buy Evolution or install the Roypow battery.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/all-about-golf-carts-things-156/evolution-golf-cart-review-november-2020-a-313404/

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/all-about-golf-carts-things-156/roypow-s51105-lithium-battery-review-313809/

[sdeikenberry]

Before you buy, consider an Atomic golf cart. They are looking across the street from Sparr
They drive like a car and have all The features of car does including air conditioning heat electric windows back up camera windshield wipers high and low beams and so much more. It’s very quiet and reliable. It can go almost 100 miles

It sort of depends what you intend to use the cart for IMHO. If you golf often, the Atomic is a PIA with it's doors. Plus golfing and getting in and out of AC all the time will make you feel more uncomfortable than just being in the heat and adjusting to the temps.

[jimbo2012]

There was somebody selling this in The Villages a few years ago. Seemed to be too expensive for what you were getting. You can go on Amazon and buy a solar panel for around $100 today. There are basic and folding versions available. They all output 12v, so you would need to integrate the panel with your specific battery system.


Yes that was me, just sold the first one built back in 2013, it was never plugged into a charger.
Went 50 miles + easy.

With the ranger trojan batteries,

Building another now you need about 250 watts to maintain the charge and I have a controller that prevents over charging

It was hard sell here with all the stinky gas cart folks. :1rotfl:

[Dhooks]

Funny that electric seems to be the future for many. Disposing of batteries, not easy. Even with solar and wind there is not enough electricity produced to sustain this electric movement. Group think surmises that road vehicles consume the vast majority of fossil fuels, not true. Ocean going vessels shipping products consume the most. Buying into this “electric trend” as some sort of antidote to us having a greener and better life is a joke at best.

[budfor]

I just had a total duh moment...why would you need gas a gas cart if you just had a roof solar panel in the FL sun on an electric cart? Is there someplace that installs solar panels on electric carts? Why isn't this standard from the manufacturers in 2021? Almost all new RVs have a roof solar panel to charge the house battery to run the fridge. Why are golf carts so behind the times? Who wants to go on shark tank with me? The solar panel on top will not fit through all of the tunnels!

[Jack65]

Top speed?

[Astron]

We have a basic, old electric golf cart. Is it possible to buy the new lithium batteries for an old cart?

It certainly is possible, but expect a higher price. They have a much higher capacity, require no maintenance, are lighter, and last far longer than the old style lead battery. Lithium-ion Batteries: A Complete Guide - GolfCarts.org (https://golfcarts.org/lithium-ion-batteries-a-complete-guide/)

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Funny that electric seems to be the future for many. Disposing of batteries, not easy. Even with solar and wind there is not enough electricity produced to sustain this electric movement. Group think surmises that road vehicles consume the vast majority of fossil fuels, not true. Ocean going vessels shipping products consume the most. Buying into this “electric trend” as some sort of antidote to us having a greener and better life is a joke at best.

I agree. This whole electric fad is not better for the environment.

I'm surprised that ocean going vessels use the most fossil fuels. I would think that it would be airplanes. There are so many more planes in the air on a daily basis than there are ships. I would imagine that one ship crossing the ocean would burn more fuel than a plane doing the same trip, but when you consider that there are about 10,000 planes in the air at any given time in the U.S. it seems that as a group they are going to burn more fuel.

But people tend to not consider the energy that it takes to make batteries and how the electricity that charges them is created. And as you you point out the disposal is not environmentally friendly.

I much prefer electric golf carts and I have one here. If I could extend the range that would be perfect. But as far as electric cars go, I see a bit problem with the time that it takes to charge them. If you're on a long trip and go 200 miles before needing a charge, you're going to have to stop for hours to recharge.

I think that if environmentalists were really concerned about air quality we'd see a move to natural gas. It burns more cleanly than gasoline producing a fraction of the pollutants. It is plentiful, current cars can easily be converted and we have infrastructure in place to distribute it. People with natural gas in their homes could add a filling station and current gas station could easily be converted. We have natural gas lines running everywhere in this country. It would be much easier than creating electric charging stations.

And if President Biden's goal of having all electric cars by 2035 comes to fruition, what happens to all of he gasoline cars in existence now? And do they think about people that can't afford to buy a new car?

China is responsible for 30% of the world's air pollution. The U.S. is responsible for 15%. If we cut ours in half it's a small dent.

I prefer electric golf carts but I think that they idea of all electric cars is pure folly.

[phairmason]

The quality of this cart is terrible. I own one and sorry I do. The roof is of such thin plastic it cracked under the weight of the curtain in the back. They had to replace the roof. It also rides like a tank. They will not set the speed above 20mph. Impossible to pass a cart doing 15mph on cart path. There is no attention to detail on this cart.

Did you buy from Villages Discount Golf? I'm curious how long the warrantee work took to be completed... Did you get the big display and how has that held up? --Ruthie

[phairmason]

We just ordered Evolution 4 seater Plus from STM Golf Carts in Ocala.I did not like how Village Discount Golf Carts does business. When it comes to the Evolution you take what they have, they don't let you customize your cart. They are more of a Yamaha dealer and have only been selling Evolution for about 6 months. Stm has been selling Evolution for 5 years. Evolution comes from the factory with speed up to 25mph but Village Discount turns it down to 20mph.The Evolution also comes with a 2 year warranty but Village Discount tells you 1 but that they warranty the cart for 5 years. What they don't tell you is that you are paying over a $1000 for their extended warranty. Talk to Sam at STM first, it's a family business. Lithium is the future. It's 350lbs lighter than regular batteries and with the 180mah I like the idea of being able to go from one end of The Villages and back as it's getting so big. Also no maintenance and have a 5 year warranty on the battery. STM also can change out regular batteries for Lithium on some carts. The Lithium batteries come with a plug that can go in any outlet, no more heavy charger. The charger is built in.

Thanks for the info. We'll be in Ocala next week so will stop by STM and talk to Sam. How long does it take from ordering to receiving your cart? I like the 110 volt plug as I don't park my cart near a garage wall; we can plug a short extension cord into the garage door motor and drop it from above. --Ruthie

[dewilson58]

How is the ride??
Every electric I ride in has a very stiff ride.
(because of the battery weight)
With the new batteries, has the ride improved??
:gc:

[phairmason]

You can read my review of Evolution. The 130 AH battery barely gets 45 miles. The 180 AH might get 55-65 miles but there is something basic wrong if that's all it gets.

Thanks, Footer. Yes I had read your review closely before submitting--what you returned is exactly what I am looking to purchase.

I will definitely look into buying after market mirrors. I also was a little put off by the too-simple design of the rear seat connection but the ones I saw did all line up. I am quite short so puffy seats are uncomfortable for me (my current cart has very low-profile [read: hard] seats). I am unsure that I would ever drive 45 miles in one day, let alone 55-65; as it seems to be a concern, it appears that they've changed the standard from 130AH to 180AH. Interesting that you found the ride rough; I went over a deep pothole without hardly noticing it but I'll look for more rough road when I test drive others. --Ruthie

[phairmason]

We bought a "loaded" 2-seater last fall. We really love it. It does get up and go, but after a few times, you figure it out. I can't quote a range. I also have a Yamaha gas cart for the longer trips; however, I'm confident the EVolution could get it done as well.

Thanks for the confidence in the 'jump' start. I figured we'd get used to it. We will also have a gas Yamaha at least for the next few years. --Ruthie

[phairmason]

My buddy bought one and loves it so I bought one also. Great cart. Much nicer than my club car and customer service at the dealer is great. Not like cart world! Have the shelf installed and you don’t have to worry about storage.

Did you buy from Villages Discount Golf Carts or elsewhere? I'm glad you and your buddy love your EVolution carts.

[phairmason]

We have one on order; demand exceeds supply right now. They can adjust the ‘jump’ at the start to make it less noticeable without effecting the top end speed. The 180 Amp Hour battery should last you for a drive anywhere in the Villages and back. We currently have a 120 Amp Hour battery on our EZGO and driven it at top speed for over three hours and still showed a quarter charge on the meter.

Glad to hear they can adjust the 'jump.' Thanks! --Ruthie

[Bay Kid]

I agree. This whole electric fad is not better for the environment.

I'm surprised that ocean going vessels use the most fossil fuels. I would think that it would be airplanes. There are so many more planes in the air on a daily basis than there are ships. I would imagine that one ship crossing the ocean would burn more fuel than a plane doing the same trip, but when you consider that there are about 10,000 planes in the air at any given time in the U.S. it seems that as a group they are going to burn more fuel.

But people tend to not consider the energy that it takes to make batteries and how the electricity that charges them is created. And as you you point out the disposal is not environmentally friendly.

I much prefer electric golf carts and I have one here. If I could extend the range that would be perfect. But as far as electric cars go, I see a bit problem with the time that it takes to charge them. If you're on a long trip and go 200 miles before needing a charge, you're going to have to stop for hours to recharge.

I think that if environmentalists were really concerned about air quality we'd see a move to natural gas. It burns more cleanly than gasoline producing a fraction of the pollutants. It is plentiful, current cars can easily be converted and we have infrastructure in place to distribute it. People with natural gas in their homes could add a filling station and current gas station could easily be converted. We have natural gas lines running everywhere in this country. It would be much easier than creating electric charging stations.

And if President Biden's goal of having all electric cars by 2035 comes to fruition, what happens to all of he gasoline cars in existence now? And do they think about people that can't afford to buy a new car?

China is responsible for 30% of the world's air pollution. The U.S. is responsible for 15%. If we cut ours in half it's a small dent.

I prefer electric golf carts but I think that they idea of all electric cars is pure folly.

I guess we will be buying electric cars for the poor and pay for their electricity.

[Jrspud]

Yes. Most lithium batteries can be installed fairly easily.

[Johnny2Ball]

Put the larger RoyPow lithium Batteries in 2019 electric club car in January 2021. I don’t give it a second thought to dive anywhere in TV. Batteries installed at dealership in Leesburg, they did a very clean job of installing batteries and charger. Only need a extension cord to recharge.

Which dealership in Leesburg installed your RoyPow Lithium Batteries????? I'm having my RoyPow Lithium Battery Pack installed by Mark's Mobile Golf Cart Garage in the VIllages.

[kkingston57]

I checked out the Evolution golf cart. I am 6'3". The accelerator in these carts is too close to my foot. My leg is almost completely up right. For me not very comfortable

[MorTech]

I don't have much confidence in the longevity of the lithium packs on any cart except for the Samsung SDI lithium pack on the EZGO Elite. The EZGO Elite is stupid expensive at about $20K at the villages golf cars. Wouldn't you rather have a 2022 Honda Civic LX for the same money? :)

[Northerner52]

There are a few places that retrofit. I know Luxus in leesburg does and the Evolution dealer in Ocala does too.

We have a basic, old electric golf cart. Is it possible to buy the new lithium batteries for an old cart?

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

The quality of this cart is terrible. I own one and sorry I do. The roof is of such thin plastic it cracked under the weight of the curtain in the back. They had to replace the roof. It also rides like a tank. They will not set the speed above 20mph. Impossible to pass a cart doing 15mph on cart path. There is no attention to detail on this cart.

I looked at one yesterday and as soon as the salesman said, "Made in China" I was out.

I'm looking at the EZ Go which seems to be the one to go to in the opinion of many.

I've always been a Club Car guy but from what I understand, their lithium powered carts don't get any better mileage than their led acid battery carts. Also, the 10 inch wheels are an upgrade and might require some modification to the suspension.

[DARFAP]

Bought ours at Luxus Golf Cars on 441 in Leesburg. Custom ordered it.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

We have one on order; demand exceeds supply right now. They can adjust the ‘jump’ at the start to make it less noticeable without effecting the top end speed. The 180 Amp Hour battery should last you for a drive anywhere in the Villages and back. We currently have a 120 Amp Hour battery on our EZGO and driven it at top speed for over three hours and still showed a quarter charge on the meter. Gas is yesterday’s familiar habit, lithium is the future.

Are you talking about the Evolution?

The "jump" start was a knock on electric carts for years. About 20 years ago Club Car came up with a technology called "ramping" that gradually brought the cart up to speed when starting out.

I assume that by now, all other electric carts have this technology.

I'm wondering if the EZ GO lithium has it.

To me the Evolution hasn't been around long enough and being made in China is a turnoff.

Having been in the golf business for 35 years and overseeing fleets of golf carts, I was initially an EZ GO guy but then Club Car just took over the market and I've been a dyed in the wool Club Car guy for a long time.

At this point, however, based on what I'm hearing, EX GO is beating everyone in the lithium category.

I'm currently looking at an EZ GO Elite.

[Rose Ann Vinci Igoe]

We have a basic, old electric golf cart. Is it possible to buy the new lithium batteries for an old cart?

Yes, but the guts have to be redone.....

[Road-Runner]

I checked out the Evolution golf cart. I am 6'3". The accelerator in these carts is too close to my foot. My leg is almost completely up right. For me not very comfortable

We had the same complaint, for some reason the Evolution gas pedal is mounted well back from where could be and when test driving it we had to only put our toes on the bottom of the pedal with our feet straight down. That, the almost total lack of aftermarket accessories and 'Made In China' were deal killers for us.

[stratcat]

We just bought a 2021 Classic 2 Plus from TV Discount Golf Carts. We've logged about 75 miles so far and everything seems to be performing as expected. The issue I do have is with the top end speed. They are rated at 25 mph but the dealer drops it to 20 mph citing some mandate from the villages that all carts cannot be capable of exceeding that speed. Has anyone heard of such a restriction. I know the speed limit is 20 and it's my responsibility to comply but since when does someone have the right to control what I can set my personal property to perform at. Has anyone heard of a Villages Regulation requiring carts to be limited to max speed of 20 mph?

Update: I have my answer...
Florida Statute 320.01(22) defines a golf cart as “a motor vehicle that is designed and
manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes and that
is not capable of exceeding speeds of 20 MPH.”

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

How is the ride??
Every electric I ride in has a very stiff ride.
(because of the battery weight)
With the new batteries, has the ride improved??
:gc:

I had a Club Car DS for years and love it. For reasons I'd prefer not to mention, I sold it and have a an Ez Go Lithium now on order.

I loved the ride of that DS. I always thought that it was the best golf cart made up until they discontinued it.

I rode in the friend's Yamaha gas several times and never felt comfortable in it. It always seemed to me that I was sitting on top of the Yamaha as opposed to sitting in the Club Car.

Of course the 10" wheels on the Yamaha are going to give a smoother ride than the 8" wheels of the Club Car.

[Battlebasset]

Just bought a 2022 Evolution 180A pack. 1 year bumper to bumper. 5 years for battery. From Villages Discount Golf Carts. Loved the quiet ride and quick acceleration. No gas fumes. Told the dealer that I could be their best or worst salesman. Price much less than EZ Go, and larger battery. Will post updates, it arrives on Tuesday.

09/25/2021 Update - So far, pleased. Drove it 25 miles and the battery meter only down to little less than 70%. I'm OK with the pedal position, but I'm short. Quiet. No gas fumes. Great acceleration due to the torque of the electric motor, but it does top out at 20 MPH. Some gas carts definitely quicker I've discovered. I really like the larger wheel/low profile tire set up. I got the bluetooth radio set up, can't say I'm too pleased with that. The radio controls are only on the control panel, small, and almost impossible to use while driving. The sound quality is mediocre, the radio reception not too good. I might look into seeing if I can at least install a volume control on the dash.

[LeftyMike]

Not a bad cart. Runs will. Probably will get 70 miles/charge with 180 ah battery.

I upgraded the sound for about $100. The 2 glove box doors can be 3D printed.

Software for the display screen needs to be better, but useable.

Starts are smooth. Maybe just electric acceleration.

There is another dealer in Ocala.


I test drove an Evolution Electric Plus 4 Passenger cart today at Villages Discount Golf Carts on 441. I have a 2013 gas Yamaha 4-seater and am looking at new lithium battery carts.

It had the LED display, speakers, and back up camera and fancy wheels/tires. But other than that, it's a barebones cart--no locking glove box, for example. I drove over a pretty deep pothole without a bounce (compared to my 2013 Y). I definitely liked the price.

Evolution owners:

Do you like it?
Does the "jump" start throw you off or do you get used to it?
Nothing on the dash has a closure. Do you have problems with items blowing away--maybe there's a hack to make a cavity a glove box?
What is the mileage on the 180AH battery charge? The sales rep said 55-65 miles.
What advice do you have about the Evolution cart or about the dealers in the area?


--Ruthie

[Battlebasset]

Not a bad cart. Runs will. Probably will get 70 miles/charge with 180 ah battery.

I upgraded the sound for about $100. The 2 glove box doors can be 3D printed.

Software for the display screen needs to be better, but useable.

Starts are smooth. Maybe just electric acceleration.

There is another dealer in Ocala.

How are the glove box doors printed? Is that a DIY or via the dealer/manufacturer?

[tophcfa]

Gas is history. Electric is the future.

That’s great news, there will be plenty of nice used gas carts available for those who prefer the internal combustion engine: )

[MorTech]

Electric is the future for golf carts and some automobiles but you cannot beat the energy density of the hydrocarbon...Safely.
Battery energy density is literally pathetic and won't get much better. Storing electrons in a chemical goo is kind of a dumb idea.
Cant wait for muh antimatter powered cart!

Energy density - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energy_density)

[Tyrone Shoelaces]

I don't have much confidence in the longevity of the lithium packs on any cart except for the Samsung SDI lithium pack on the EZGO Elite. The EZGO Elite is stupid expensive at about $20K at the villages golf cars. Wouldn't you rather have a 2022 Honda Civic LX for the same money? :)
Uhm, No.
My cart is a big part of my life (pathetic, I know)
My 19' Elite has over 9k miles on it. It's performed flawlessly and I've done Zero maintenance on it

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Love my lithium EZGO, 70 mi range, quiet, no exhaust smell, strong acceleration.

I have an EZGO RVX Elite on order. I didn;t take it for a test drive before ordering but happened to beat the store and was talking to the salesman and he suggested that we take one out for a spin. I liked it a lot except that I felt that it was very loud for an electric cart. My last cart was an older Club Car DS and it was much quieter than the EZGO.

Is this common with lithium powered carts or is it just the EZGO?

I was looking at some articles on cart recently and several of them named the Club Car lithium as the best cart on the market. Maybe I should have test driven one of those before I placed my order.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

How is the ride??
Every electric I ride in has a very stiff ride.
(because of the battery weight)
With the new batteries, has the ride improved??
:gc:

That's funny. When I was having my old electric Club Car DS serviced I was given a Yamaha gas loaner and I thought the ride was very stiff and uncomfortable compared to my Club Car.

[Brant O]

Which brand of lithium battery are you using?
Thank you.

[MorTech]

Uhm, No.
My cart is a big part of my life (pathetic, I know)
My 19' Elite has over 9k miles on it. It's performed flawlessly and I've done Zero maintenance on it

Hence the "smiley face" at the end of the sentence :)
The Evolution carts are half the price of the EZGO Elite. I see a lot more of them around TV lately.

[MorTech]

The EZGO uses a limited slip transaxle for better traction in wet grass...Limited slip axles tend to be a bit "chatty".

[Syd2008]

Have either one of you noticed a rather loud humming noise until you get to 18.6 mph. Supposed to be a new federal regulation.

Discount cart said nothing can be done. Required. Very irritating

[imalowany]

Have either one of you noticed a rather loud humming noise until you get to 18.6 mph. Supposed to be a new federal regulation.

Discount cart said nothing can be done. Required. Very irritating
I wouldn’t trust anything they said. They are the worst to deal with. Sorry I bought from them. Love the Cart but not them. And I don’t have a humming noise.

[DARFAP]

Since this is about the only thread discussing Evolution golf carts, thought I'd throw this out there. I purchased from Luxus Golf Carts in Leesburg. When I called about scheduling the first annual "checkup," they let me know they are no longer a dealer. They will still do inspections; however, any warranty work or maintenance required will have to be done by the new dealer: Villages Discount Golf Carts.

[Laker14]

Put the larger RoyPow lithium Batteries in 2019 electric club car in January 2021. I don’t give it a second thought to dive anywhere in TV. Batteries installed at dealership in Leesburg, they did a very clean job of installing batteries and charger. Only need a extension cord to recharge.

do you have a DS or a Precedent?

[Laker14]

Totally disagree with golf carts. Remember they are a golf cart.

How does one disagree with a golf cart?

[Tyrone Shoelaces]

Put the larger RoyPow lithium Batteries in 2019 electric club car in January 2021. I don’t give it a second thought to dive anywhere in TV. Batteries installed at dealership in Leesburg, they did a very clean job of installing batteries and charger. Only need a extension cord to recharge.
Dealership name please?

[Ithreeputtoo]

I have a Yamaha with lead batteries and I want to change it over to lithium but so far I have not been successful in finding a company that does that. Any suggestions would be appreciated!!!!

[Michael G.]

In the news, there are lithium batteries in cars catching on fire in garages.
Is there same problem with lithium batteries in Golf carts??

[Michael G.]

In the news, there are lithium batteries in cars catching on fire in garages.
Is there same problem with lithium batteries in Golf carts??

////

[Tyrone Shoelaces]

I have a Yamaha with lead batteries and I want to change it over to lithium but so far I have not been successful in finding a company that does that. Any suggestions would be appreciated!!!!

I had a company in Tavares called Mando's do a lithium conversion on an old DS of mine.
Since I got it back I've parked my EZGO Elite and just drive the DS.
It's awesome! It drives like a Go-Cart. nimble, fast and super acceleration which is adjustable on the fly. 40 miles took it to 38% so far.
Anyone looking for a 2019 Elite? :icon_wink:

[Altavia]

I had a company in Tavares called Mando's do a lithium conversion on an old DS of mine.
Since I got it back I've parked my EZGO Elite and just drive the DS.
It's awesome! It drives like a Go-Cart. nimble, fast and super acceleration which is adjustable on the fly. 40 miles took it to 38% so far.
Anyone looking for a 2019 Elite? :icon_wink:

UP GRADE TO LITHIUM (https://mandosgolfcarts.com/up-grade-to-lithium)

[dhdallas]

Buy gas

Yes, by all means get a smelly, polluting, noisy gas powered cart with all of its maintenance requirements and parts to malfunction, wear out, and need servicing. Belts, filters, injectors, oil, plugs, timing, bearings, muffler, and more are a mechanics gold mine sure to keep them in business for years to come. I have a 22 year old electric Club Car that had the "old school" lead acid batteries and would go from one end of TV to the other with juice leftover. I finally replaced them with four Lithium Iron Phosphate 12v 100ah batteries. Super lightweight and even more range and power. It never needs professional servicing, has a top speed of 24 mph, and I just plug it in at the end of the day and its ready to go again.

Electric cars, carts, tools, etc. are here to stay. Do NOT listen to anyone who is simply resistant to change because they are old and stuck in the past.

[dhdallas]

////


And gasoline isn't flammable? Pay no attention to isolated stories that also fail to include whatever stupidity on the owner's part caused the fires.

[MartinSE]

The path around this tree is getting deeper and deeper. And yet, we keep going round and round.

[dhdallas]

I had a company in Tavares called Mando's do a lithium conversion on an old DS of mine.
Since I got it back I've parked my EZGO Elite and just drive the DS.
It's awesome! It drives like a Go-Cart. nimble, fast and super acceleration which is adjustable on the fly. 40 miles took it to 38% so far.
Anyone looking for a 2019 Elite? :icon_wink:

Don't go to Mando's unless you want to pay a ridiculous bill. I bought four Lithium Iron Phosphate 12v 100ah batteries made by CHINS from Amazon for only $300 each (now $400) and replaced the six 8v lead acid batteries in my 2000 electric Club Car DS using the original cables & connectors. I also bought a Lithium charger from Allied for $300 and bypassed the onboard charge computer (OBC) (easy DIY job - see YouTube). Mando's wanted to charge me triple the amount I spent to easily do it myself. My cart is now lighter and faster than ever and will run forever between charges!

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/dhdallas-118996/albums/lifepo4/9436-20220501-114806-a.jpg

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/dhdallas-118996/albums/lifepo4/9437-20220501-114832-a.jpg

[Tyrone Shoelaces]

Don't go to Mando's unless you want to pay a ridiculous bill. I bought four Lithium Iron Phosphate 12v 100ah batteries made by CHINS from Amazon for only $300 each (now $400) and replaced the six 8v lead acid batteries in my 2000 electric Club Car DS using the original cables & connectors. I also bought a Lithium charger from Allied for $300 and bypassed the onboard charge computer (OBC) (easy DIY job - see YouTube). Mando's wanted to charge me triple the amount I spent to easily do it myself. My cart is now lighter and faster than ever and will run forever between charges!
You're "The Man"

I just wanted to have it professionally done with one unit.
They also put in a kickass controller and did a tremendous alignment job.
Great Guys

[JMintzer]

Yes, by all means get a smelly, polluting, noisy gas powered cart with all of its maintenance requirements and parts to malfunction, wear out, and need servicing. Belts, filters, injectors, oil, plugs, timing, bearings, muffler, and more are a mechanics gold mine sure to keep them in business for years to come.

Thanks, I will.

[DARFAP]

I don't understand the need to start yet another thread on a topic that already has several...

[JMintzer]

I don't understand the need to start yet another thread on a topic that already has several...

Because THIS time, it'll turn out differently...

Yeah, I know... I had trouble saying that with a straight face...:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[MartinSE]

I don't understand the need to start yet another thread on a topic that already has several...

If someone has the time, it would be interested to see a summary of which topics have the most threads and which have the least, and maybe the longest topics. I think longest might be "Nothing"?

[MorTech]

Lithium battery thermal runaway is nasty. If you charge at 0.1C to 90% max then the event is near zero.

[GpaVader]

I test drove an Evolution Electric Plus 4 Passenger cart today at Villages Discount Golf Carts on 441. I have a 2013 gas Yamaha 4-seater and am looking at new lithium battery carts.

It had the LED display, speakers, and back up camera and fancy wheels/tires. But other than that, it's a barebones cart--no locking glove box, for example. I drove over a pretty deep pothole without a bounce (compared to my 2013 Y). I definitely liked the price.

Evolution owners:

Do you like it?
Does the "jump" start throw you off or do you get used to it?
Nothing on the dash has a closure. Do you have problems with items blowing away--maybe there's a hack to make a cavity a glove box?
What is the mileage on the 180AH battery charge? The sales rep said 55-65 miles.
What advice do you have about the Evolution cart or about the dealers in the area?


--Ruthie

We bought one in November last year, and it has been good. I did have to send it in for service because the battery management stopped working so I couldn't charge it but TVDGC took care of it. NO issues with the Jump. Look on FB they have an Evolution owners group and they have locking enclosures people have added, not to mention other solutions. I haven't officially tested the range yet. I have had it over 65 miles with about 25% left and I was going on a jaunt the next day so I charged it up.

The piece of advice I would give is have them disconnect the growler, that makes noise until you get to 18mph and keep a long extension cord with you just in case.

[PoolBrews]

I just had a total duh moment...why would you need gas a gas cart if you just had a roof solar panel in the FL sun on an electric cart? Is there someplace that installs solar panels on electric carts? Why isn't this standard from the manufacturers in 2021? Almost all new RVs have a roof solar panel to charge the house battery to run the fridge. Why are golf carts so behind the times? Who wants to go on shark tank with me?

I'm an electrical engineer. Look at the actual charge rate for a solar panel that size. It will not provide any significant type of charge for the battery. In addition, during any normal drive you'll be on a multimodal path where you are under tree limbs about 50% of the time, so it's charging even less. A solar panel is just a gimmick on a cart.

[Oldragbagger]

We have had our Evolution 4 Pro 180 ah for three months now and so far we like it very much. I am surprised at the comments about Villages Discount Golf Carts. Our experience with them has been excellent. Just this past week we hit a hard bump and a part of our side panel popped out. We called, they picked it in two days and brought it back a day later good as new.
We like the way it rides, the quick start not a problem and we don’t notice any growling noise.
We live in the Village of Hawkins, way down south of 44. Last week we took it almost all the way to the 42 and back and had 68% battery left.
Really, these types of opinion questions really amount to asking people whether they like kale or not. Some people will love it and some will hate it.
As far as all the “made in China” comments…..only partially true. They are built in Chino, California using a mix of components, some made in China and some not. Pretty much like everything else on the road, and in the stores.

[Battlebasset]

I saw one of the new Evolution D3 carts today in Fenny. Took some pics, but unfortunately it was gone by the time I came back. Here is a video from STM. Does anyone have any insight to share on these yet?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFBz1tmuCpg

[EdFNJ]

Take a look at an Atomic. They are in Wildwood. I get around 100 miles/charge on mine. Are you sure it isn't 100 KILOMETERS (about 63 miles)? I have a lithium Atomic, actually my second one, and while it doesn't say it (nor did they when I bought it) the odometer is in Kilometers not miles. 100 miles sounds very far fetched from my experience with 2 carts and over 20,000 MILES (not kilometers) over both of them and it also depends on how you come to that number. Did you ever run it down till it died? The battery gauge is not very linear meaning it stays high until it is about down to 4 bars then it takes a dive. Don't get me wrong, I lovei it, but am VERY skeptical you get anything near 100 miles. I record every charge and every mileage reading and average about 65 MILES with some A/C use. Heater kills it. This one is 3 years+ old and the lithium batteries have not degraded 1 bit. Get exactly the same mileage as the day I bought it. I charge it about 1 time very 5 or 6 days. Maybe your is different but doesn't sound right.

[MorTech]

Figure on 2.0ah-2.5ah per mile on a 48V system.

I have seen a couple of Evolution D3 carts now. 130ah...figure on 50 miles.

[Tyrone Shoelaces]

I just got 50 out of my 105 Eco-Battery.
Amazing, that much energy can be stored in that little package.

Eco Battery Store (http://www.ecobattery.com)

[Charlene9]

Does anyone know the person who turns up the speed in the evolution golf cart?

[Battlebasset]

Does anyone know the person who turns up the speed in the evolution golf cart?

Would like to know that myself. I don't want to go 30 MPH, but being able to keep up with the other carts would be a bonus.

The law in Florida is 20 MPH max, but the carts that are sold through the Villages Golf Carts all exceed that by about 3 MPH. Villages Discount will tell you that they follow the law, but obviously, VGC skirts that.

[Brwne]

I test drove an Evolution Electric Plus 4 Passenger cart today at Villages Discount Golf Carts on 441. I have a 2013 gas Yamaha 4-seater and am looking at new lithium battery carts.

It had the LED display, speakers, and back up camera and fancy wheels/tires. But other than that, it's a barebones cart--no locking glove box, for example. I drove over a pretty deep pothole without a bounce (compared to my 2013 Y). I definitely liked the price.

Evolution owners:

Do you like it?
Does the "jump" start throw you off or do you get used to it?
Nothing on the dash has a closure. Do you have problems with items blowing away--maybe there's a hack to make a cavity a glove box?
What is the mileage on the 180AH battery charge? The sales rep said 55-65 miles.
What advice do you have about the Evolution cart or about the dealers in the area?


--Ruthie

I would be interested in your 2013 Yamaha gas cart, if your electric cart purchase replaces it.

[Oldragbagger]

I test drove an Evolution Electric Plus 4 Passenger cart today at Villages Discount Golf Carts on 441. I have a 2013 gas Yamaha 4-seater and am looking at new lithium battery carts.

It had the LED display, speakers, and back up camera and fancy wheels/tires. But other than that, it's a barebones cart--no locking glove box, for example. I drove over a pretty deep pothole without a bounce (compared to my 2013 Y). I definitely liked the price.

Evolution owners:

Do you like it?
Does the "jump" start throw you off or do you get used to it?
Nothing on the dash has a closure. Do you have problems with items blowing away--maybe there's a hack to make a cavity a glove box?
What is the mileage on the 180AH battery charge? The sales rep said 55-65 miles.
What advice do you have about the Evolution cart or about the dealers in the area?


--Ruthie

We have the Evolution Pro-4 and we like it very much. The jump start is not an issue for us, we got used to it (or learned to ease into it) pretty quickly. There is a storage locker under the back seat that is pretty specious if you have items that might blow away. We have been from the south end to the north end and back and still had almost 70% charge left so I can’t say exactly the mileage (they told us 70 miles to a charge) but it has certainly been adequate for us for anywhere we have wanted to go. Price was a big factor for us, but so was electric. We didn’t care about high end or all the bells and whistles. Basic was fine enough. The Evolution was the best all around package for us.

[GpaVader]

FWIW - We have one and have been able to get pretty close to the 80 miles I was told you could get out of it. Live in Hammocks at Fenney and have golfed up by Sumter Landing and it still shows almost 60% charge. I have not been willing to take it bone dry but I've been happy with it. The Service from The Villages Discount Golf Car has been good. I had a charging issue, they picked it up and corrected the issue and returned it inside of a week.

[Djean1981]

Buy gas
Yuck..

[mbene]

Not that there are many hills in TV, how does the Evolution handle the inclines coming out of the tunnels? Have you used it much with four people on it, if so, have you noticed any decease in performance, either range, acceleration or top end?